A local NGO in Dibrugarh, the Policy Group for People’s Rights (PGPR), has urged Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to take urgent steps to address the persistent waterlogging problem in Jibon Phukan Nagar. Residents in this area face severe flooding every monsoon due to poor drainage infrastructure and lack of maintenance.
In a recent memorandum, PGPR president Dr Aradhana Kataki highlighted that the drains built under the NLCPR scheme have not been functioning properly, leading to rainwater accumulation in residential zones. The blockage of the main Rajabheta drain has made the situation worse, causing knee-deep flooding during even moderate rainfall.
The NGO has demanded immediate repair of the faulty drains, regular cleaning and de-silting of the Rajabheta outflow channel, and the installation of high-capacity water pumps that have already been procured but remain unused.
PGPR also emphasized the need for a well-planned, scientifically designed drainage system to prevent this annual crisis and to safeguard the health and safety of residents.
This issue highlights the larger urban flooding challenges that many towns in Assam continue to face due to outdated drainage systems, rapid urban growth, and inconsistent maintenance.
Reference:
Based on the Times of India article “Dibrugarh NGO urges CM to address recurring waterlogging issues” (July 20, 2025). Read original article